Aluminium Fabrication
Due to its many qualities, aluminium is one of the most popular materials utilised across all industries. The ease of fabrication is the main reason why it is commonly used by some of the best engineering companies Perth has to offer. Suitable for mass production of everything from aircraft and automotive applications to construction, aluminium is sought-after because it is strong, durable, lightweight, and easy to work with. Due to the unique combination of properties, it can withstand all the standard metal fabrication techniques.
Properties of Aluminium
As mentioned earlier, Unlike stainless steel, aluminium is light, flexible and easy to shape. This is a great asset in industries which require materials with a high strength-to-weight ratio. Because it naturally produces a protective oxide coating, it is corrosion-resistant, which makes it extremely resilient and durable. It is also an excellent heat and electricity conductor and a good reflector of visible light. While it has a low melting point, aluminium can withstand cold temperatures and won’t become brittle in cool environments. And because it is highly recyclable, non-combustive and non-toxic, this metal is considered to be the most sustainable building material in the world. Other important properties of aluminium include sound and shock absorption, impermeability and ductility.
Benefits of Fabricating Aluminium
Aluminium fabrication is a process that involves shaping, cutting, and joining aluminium to create a wide range of products and structures. The speed and ease of fabrication contribute to the low cost of manufacturing aluminium products. It is more affordable than steel, and yet it has so many desirable properties. Experts in mechanical engineering Perth-wide are using it because it is soft and flexible, but also strong and durable at the same time. Aluminium and its alloys are a preferred choice for engineering structures and components where corrosion resistance, light weight and resilience are required.
Aluminium’s lightweight property makes it an ideal choice for applications where weight is a concern, such as huge signage. During the fabrication of aluminium signage, makers use a high-quality adhesive because aluminium has low surface energy, making it challenging for adhesives to form a strong bond with it. Moreover, this metal is also widely utilised in aerospace, automotive, and transportation industries.
As mentioned, aluminium is highly recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice. It also requires less energy to produce than other types of metal, which can help you reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Fabrication Techniques
There are many different methods of aluminium fabrication Perth engineers recommend. Some of them work well for pure aluminium, while others are better suited for its alloys. Here are some of the commonly used techniques and tips on how to fabricate aluminium:
- Extrusion is the process of shaping metal by forcing it to conform to the shape of a die. It is a fantastic method for fabricating aluminium because it puts the least stress on it. This method is often used to make rails, mullions, tracks, and frames. Manufacturers benefit from this technique because it allows high-volume production with minimal waste, making it a sustainable choice.
- Welding involves binding pieces of aluminium together. MIG and TIG welding works best when you use 1xxx and 3xxx to 6xxx aluminium alloys, while friction welding is a good method when you need to tie aluminium and another type of metal together. This technique requires high precision and detailed preparation, so hiring an experienced and skilled welder is imperative.
- Casting is a process of pouring liquid metal into a mould or die, and it works well with aluminium because it is strong and resilient. This method is perfect for 4xxx and 5xxx alloys. With aluminium casting, you can create complex shapes with intricate details. It also ensures high-dimensional accuracy and excellent surface finishes. This type of technique is impossible to do with other kinds of metal.
- Waterjet cutting involves high-pressure spraying of a mix of water and abrasives. Because you don’t have to use heat, this cutting technique is great for aluminium and its alloys.
- Adhesive bonding is also suitable for assembling aluminium pieces because many types of adhesives react well with the oxide layer.
- Machining is a fantastic method for sculpting aluminium, but you need to use lubricant along with specific tools due to this metal’s thermal properties. You’ll get the best results when using 1100, 2011, 3001 and 6061 aluminium.
With the growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, aluminium will be more popular and sought-after among businesses in various industries in the coming years.
Moreover, thanks to aluminium’s outstanding properties, there are many fabrication options available. With knowledge, skills and experience, InLine Engineering can work with you to create custom aluminium pieces that meet your unique requirements. Get in touch and discuss your future project with us.
